Ok so here's the deal....

At work we just got a bunch of 2010 Hybrid Escapes. Amazingly (for a company that spec'd AM only radios or none at all until it started costing more money to do that) they all have the SYNC system on them.

It's a pretty impressive system, but I have no hopes of buying a new truck anytime soon.
The feature I like the most is the cellphone interface.

I know that an aftermarket system won't give me many of the features that you get with SYNC, but the handsfree, through the audio system phone feature is what I really want to get, since old Johnny law is getting pretty **** about cell phone use in my area.

My truck is a 97 F150 XLT SC and has the factory 6 CD changer alongside the rear seat.
I know I'll probably lose the use of the CD changer, but after some soul searching, I could live with that if I can get other features I want.

What I want is;

Bluetooth interface for Cell Phone
CD play capability (single CD or changer)
IPOD interface
High Power (4X45W or better)
Outputs for future addition of amp and/or subs

Sat inputs or HD radio capability a plus, but not a deal breaker.

Reasonable RF immunity (I have 2 way radio equipment in the truck and have had problems with aftermarket audio equipment and radio transmitters)

I have had Alpine in the past and loved it. Pioneer also has had no issues with the RF situation, but every piece of Kenwood I ever owned has been junk RF wise.....surprising since Kenwood also makes 2 way radios....

Thoughts, suggestions?

Christmas is coming.....

 

Anybody?

Any thoughts on the Alpine CDE103BT ?

 

Kenwood X693 or X993.

They have bluetooth capability, ipod ready with usb, I believe 50wX4, 3 rca outputs..

http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entert...eiver/KDC-X993

 

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+KDC-X993.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+KDC-X693.html

Cheapest place you will probably find them.

 

The OP says he has had past issues with Kenwood, so that rules out that (I agree I dont like them one bit).

Check out the Pioneer DEH-P6100 or DEH-P7100

 

I have no problems with my x693. When it comes to head units it Kenwood, Alpine or nothing.

 

Thanks, Sundevil.

I hadn't considered Pioneer, even though I have Pioneer receivers in my T-Bird and my old truck.

I'd just pull the Pioneer out of the old truck and use it, (since it's most likely going to the scrapper since I haven't been able to find it a home), but it doesn't have Bluetooth or IPOD support.

I had Alpine in my Mustang and I loved it. When the Alpine died, I replaced it with a Kenwood that I was never really happy with, so that's where my dislike of Kenwood comes from.

 

Alpine is an outstanding choice... I have the Alpine IVA-W505 HU in my truck and it is great... I would recommend any of the new Alpine units that would fit, bluetooth is always a possibility...

 

i have the clarion cx905 and love the unit it has all you will need and you will not take a beating on the pocket book when you buy it. i got mine from crutchfield.